PAL College Cabramatta INSIGHT? (2 Viewers)

[astroe]

Well that's quite ignorant because the thread was asking opinions from different perspectives.

Different perspectives are worthy if they hold truth, not some random BS you just heard or made up yourself.
I really don't see you being in a position to be judging the school, since you don't seem to know anything about what goes on around here, period.

Look, again, ultimately it depends on your own personal circumstances. If you are in a position where you school is ranked 300 or below, and see no signs of anything getting better, then by all means feel free to act to better yourself by changing schools. Whether it is Pal College or not, it's your choice.

With any school, the only thing you can really use for a direct comparison is the rank, and first hand testimonies by students who go there, nothing else.
I'm not saying "Oh, come to Pal, come to Pal, we're so 1337" or anything like that, it's just that the fact that the school came 97th last year is because of the skill and dedication of the teachers at the school have - not some random fluke.

I personally find it an engaging learning environment, with dedicated teachers who are there every step of the way. Compared to schools in the area, you'd be hard pressed to find teaching skills or the same calibre - again, I make this judgment based on quantitative truth, the fact that Pal College came first in for our HSC region.

So wait...is PAL College a school? Or a tutoring college? I'm lost here.

Pal College = Independent Private School (Years 7 to 12)
Pal Education = Privately Owned Tuition business (Years 3 - 12)


Hm, I think there's been a lot of confusion between the two.

 

[the-derivative]

LOOOOL.
If you guys want a proper insight, feel free to ask any students that go there, obviously.

You're certainly not going to get any credible advice from people who don't go to the school, especially if they go to one ranked 250th in the state.

If it was so "easy for the "departments to play around with the figures" then why is your own school ranking so mediocre?
If we came 97th from mere "self study at home" then I wonder, what the hell is going on at Patrician?

These are unsubstianted accusations and should be dealt with as such.

I don't know how many times I've said this to people but there's no harm in saying it again, PAL College is a private school, an ENTIRELY separate entity from PAL Education, the tuition, a private business.
The school has no say in how the tuition is run, and the tuition has no say in how the school is run, they are two completely different entities.
Any grievances experienced through the tuition need not be applied to the school, and vice versa.



However, about the school;

Due to the low number of students, the teacher to student ratio can remain relatively high.
Teachers will be better able to focus on students, having the freedom of allowing a more flexible approach to learning - more time can be spent on areas if needed.

But if you have any specific questions, feel free to ask.
As it stands, the proof is clearly in the results of our students, each year has improved on the previous.

2008 HSC - 97th overall rank
2007 HSC - 115th overall rank

Firstly, I've never criticised Pal College's method of teaching - I just said it would feel more as a tuition not as a school - which I still stand by. Whether that's what you're looking for, really depends on the individual. Also with your blatant attack on Patrician Brothers' College - that's the thing that you don't understand. Pal College doesn't accept any students who are actually deemed by the Board of Studies to be disadvantaged - schools, not just mine, but many other schools in the area such as Freeman Catholic College or even many of the public schools in the area such as Canley Vale do.

Also comparing with our rank, 2008 was a very big drop. Our school had already predicted that 2008 wasn't a strong cohort, not because the top end wasn't strong, but they had a lot more students with special needs. At the College this year, we have 30 students deemed by the board of studies to be disadvantaged, that's more than your whole cohort. Consistently, our dux has gotten well over 99.55 (2007 - 99.85, 2008 - 99.75) and we always get approximately 30+ students with a UAI over 90 - again more than your whole cohort.

As Gordy said, this thread is about varying perspectives and I respect that. I still stand by my belief that comprehensive public, catholic and private schools provide a more rounded education. Also, the current ranking system is flaw - as discussed by many previous members in other threads. I actually respect many schools, not just my own, who accept the less-gifted students and help them in achieving - maybe they won't get a Band 6, but they'll get a Band 4 or 5 and I think that it is a flaw within the ranking system that it fails to recognize this. If my school was to only take our top two classes, I would have complete confidence that we would be in the Top 100.

To end in a more positive note to ease some negative tension felt by the Pal College students as a result of I guess a different interpretation of my opinions, I guess go to Pal College if you want a more personal touch - which reinforces my original point which I still maintain - it would feel more like tuition, but I never said that was a bad thing.

 

[vennmuch]

Well, to the OP - talk to students who go there. Go to the school and check out the venue (if you haven't already). Talk to the principle, office ladies, staff. Do everything you can to get the 'feel' of things. Lastly, after all that, sit down and balance the pros/cons and what does your gut feelings tell you?

Maths --> great, they are claiming 'specialists in mathematics and science' afterall.
Science --> duno much, but I'm guessing pretty good from statement above.
Eng, other social science subjects --> LOLOLOL... bad-average/mediocre at best.
Economics --> DO NOT GO THERE. Textbook reading, bludging where the subject is heavily theory based and needs comprehensive explanations.

I personally wouldn't go there because Maths/Sciences aren't my thing (though I do extension maths) and quite simply, I wouldn't be able to take advantage of their perpetuated superior skillz in areas of maths/science. I like and focus on English and humanities so again, not my area to be in for PAL.

I did, however, contemplate applying and LOL got a part scholarship pretty randomly. I'm not leet or extremely smart, however, I do do well in a handful of subjects - so I'm not saying that they are desperate but their scholarships are anything but competitive.

Other things to consider:
- no playground (this should juvenile but seriously, we're kids, guys - we need our grass)
- no substantial library (yes, yes its under development/already finished - but last I checked, it was smaller than my personal library. That's highly exaggerated but it is tiny, to be called a library)
- most, if not all, rec functions/activities/excursions (camps, formals) are student organised.
- no sport, unless you call showing up at the youth centres in cabra school sport.

Don't mean to bash them or promote them, but the points above are factual - and if they prove to indeed FALSE, please feel free to correct me (which no doubt these captains/vice/reps from the school would jump at the opportunity).

And no, these aren't random BS that I made up. Thus, it is appropriate under the OPs request of 'different perspectives' on the school/matter.

 

[Liyo]

Eng, other social science subjects --> LOLOLOL... bad-average/mediocre at best.
Economics --> DO NOT GO THERE. Textbook reading, bludging where the subject is heavily theory based and needs comprehensive explanations.

And no, these aren't random BS that I made up. Thus, it is appropriate under the OPs request of 'different perspectives' on the school/matter.

How did you get the statistics for English and the Social Sciences. Have you seen the average scores?

 

[johony]

so, what are the fees like at PAL college? surely there are similarly priced schools in sydney with nearly the same personal attention?

 

[khorne]

I love it how PAL got several students to sign up just to support the school.

 

[Liyo]

I love it how PAL got several students to sign up just to support the school.

Wow. I love it how you make assumptions like that. I'm sure that if someone gave an opinion about your school that you don't agree with you'll defend it.
"the-derivative" defended Patrician Brothers in this topic, aren't Pal College students entitled to support their school? Also, note that the school did not "get" students to sign up, they acted on free will. Please use a bit of logic before posting.

I go to Pal College and it's just like any other school. There are things that I don't like about the school, but at the end of the day it's just like any other learning environment. Although, this is only my opinion.

 

[astroe]

so, what are the fees like at PAL college? surely there are similarly priced schools in sydney with nearly the same personal attention?

The fees are about $5500 a year, you can pay by term as well.
I wouldn't know of any other schools in this price bracket, I mean we're more expensive than most Catholic Schools ($1-2k) but nowhere near the ones pricey ones like Kings, Scots, Grammar or Shore. (20k+).

Having never gone to another private school, I wouldn't know of any comparable ones. Perhaps someone who does go to one may wish to make it known.

 

[vennmuch]

How did you get the statistics for English and the Social Sciences. Have you seen the average scores?

Again, I never claimed they were based on statistics. Just like "specialists in mathematics and science" isn't based on statistics - purely assumptions. Those were 'insights' into the school, which are, of course generalised because - most 'insights' are generalisations to a certain degree. It is a generalisation to say that kids from selective schools are smart - but the truth is, most are though some aren't.

I was talking about the teaching, not the results although I see the logic of correlating the two. I did not say they were bad at Eng and Social Scences - they are just average/mediocre, as I mentioned. And looking at the statistics, PAL is average/mediocre in most areas, including Maths and Sciences although credit to PAL, they have pushed students very far in these two areas.

I know a few kids from PAL personally (and a few is a decent proportion of the school, statistically, no? ) and this is the general consensus. Most of them are already good/alright at Eng. And social sciences... if you do economics at PAL, don't tell me you DON'T think it's a rubbish and a complete waste of time of 'economics in class'?

Now this discussion makes me wonder. If one were to be home schooled, and came first in the state (ATAR 99.95), would that person's 'school' come first, beating James Ruse whose average isn't 99.95 because its not possible for a full school?

And yeah, without scholarships you're looking at around $5k a year, unless you have siblings and stuff which gets you more discounts. I'd say it's a pretty good deal, guy who goes to Kings paid $20k and that's not including the other ridiculously expensive extras that's usually cheaper or free at PAL.

 

[astroe]

Now this discussion makes me wonder. If one were to be home schooled, and came first in the state (ATAR 99.95), would that person's 'school' come first, beating James Ruse whose average isn't 99.95 because its not possible for a full school?

Everyone who is home schooled is categorised as "Self Tuition Students", it's on the rankings somewhere.

They do pretty well, but it fluctuates from year to year considering the limitless variations possible. I'm not quite sure about the validity of the internal assessment marks though.

 

[vennmuch]

^ Ha really? Oh damn. Someone can't pull off an "I represent my school, we (by we I mean I) came first this year. Take that, Ruse."

Anyways just realised I forgot to mention the pros of PAL coz there are a few to match the aforementioned cons.
- Maths/Science - as most people would know, they do do it quite well. Teaching in these areas is superb because the quality of the teachers is high.
- Personal contact with the principle. He knows pretty much everything about everyone. How many schools do this?
- The principle is an awesome guy, really nice and cool and super smart.
- Principle who writes part of the HSC - his words not mine and I'm counting on it to be true.
- One teacher/subject (is this still completely true, or have they added more for areas like Maths and stuff) which is good I guess if that teacher's good. Equal access to the system for all students
- Small class, more focus on you, generally.
- Really close knitted circle in terms of social climate - almost everyone knows everyone... well.
- With all the bashing about their teaching and stuff... it sounds like they are quite good because the class is small, teachers can focus on you if you want them to, generally.

If you don't go to a top 50 school (yes, this is generalising again) or you do but your school's teaching is crap for whatever reason, then I'd say look hard into PAL. Especially if you need the attention and motivation to elevate yourself in class.

If you go to a school that teaches well, you just need to try harder, or if you're already in year 12 like the OP... really consider the pros and cons evenly and hard.

I'd take the part scholarship in a second if I'm doing all Maths, sciences and the extra stuff like school sport, playground weren't important to me or my school doesn't teach well/not an alraedy selective school. But I don't and they are and it does/is.

Don't get me wrong, I don't even participate in school sport properly but the provision of them gives me a nice feeling of a HS experience. Yeah, shallow and superficial, I know but I like my playground that comes with grass owned by the school.

 

[Liyo]

if you do economics at PAL, don't tell me you DON'T think it's a rubbish and a complete waste of time of 'economics in class'?

I don't do economics, although they went on an excursion today. The teacher for economics also teaches me legal studies, it's okay I guess. More leaning towards self study in this area. However, some of the students last year didn't receive such a bad score for economics.

 

[vennmuch]

I don't do economics, although they went on an excursion today. The teacher for economics also teaches me legal studies, it's okay I guess. More leaning towards self study in this area. However, some of the students last year didn't receive such a bad score for economics.

Haha he teaches both?

And yeah, Tim Riley - that must have been pretty cool.

 

[sachu]

I'm a current student of PAL. I don't know what u guys r talking about --those who are against PAL"s system of education? The main thing is that whichever whoever's college u go....U can never get a ATAR of 99.95 if u don't have the motivation and aim to actually do it and that spirit has to come from within you. Stop accusing on PAL's education system or the teachers...they are all highly respected people and we should be grateful to have them as our guide through our HSC- this crucial period.

Grow up, guys and PLEASE be positive.

Look at yourself twice in the mirror before judging on others.

Proud to be PAL kid.

 

[M155LILY]

What most people are saying here are mostly rumors.

What better way to judge PAL than go to the school and check out the place.

Asking this sort of question in a forum would, did, cause problems like this. Both negative and positive comments about the school.

Yes, PAL's got some downfalls, though personally I think it's a pretty decent school. Whether you choose to study hard and achieve high marks it pretty much up to you.

 

[anonymous4U]

I may not be a student of pal, but i do have cousins and friends which have and are attended the school.

I, myself have wanted to attend that school. It's a great school with teachers that are absolutely nice and friendly. They are easily approachable also great teachers to just have a friendly chat to. Students are very competitive, which will strive you to do better therefore improve and gain a deeper understanding.

yes, pal may have downfalls, but all schools have downfalls. All schools are not to be perfect.

The fact that you want to move this late into the year is to risky on your ATAR. You rather stay at your school you attending now as you are already use to the teaching methods and teachers at the school. Therefore it will benefit your learning but if you have difficulties understanding a course context by all means apply yourself to a tutition they maybe expensive but will have a great impact on your understanding.

School is school. Doesn't matter what school you come from, if you have the heart and goal to achieve well you will achieve well. So quit all this negative and false assumptions, they will lead no where hence will result to no conclusion whatsoever.

 

[sachu]

Thts right. Well said, mate

 

[andrewPAL]

Lmfao, I'm currently in the same grade at PAL College with astroe, Liyo and M155L1LY, I'm doing SHITHOLEZ LuLz!!@!@!@

Anyways, Enrol at PAL College if you want the CABRAMATTA CBD as your lunchtime playground.

Nuff said.

 

[hairspray]

One of our family friend went to Pal College last year and got 99.35 UAI, so it is fair to say that the kind of education that pal college offers is pretty good. Just to be fair, i know a girl that went there and got a UAI that wasnt brilliant (in the 70s). Ok, so the thing is my parents are already planning to move my little brother (his in yr7 atm) to a school in the top 200 next year and when his in yr11, his definitely going to Pal College. And they are living in deep regret that they didnt move me to pal college. I'm laughing at him already because that means taking the train to cabramatta everyday...

 

[anom1ly]

i vsed their counter-strike team a few years back. they were all asian and good players. needless to say, i got schooled